How does lightning build up the charge to discharge through atmospheric air? Why can’t I build up the same charge under my blankets to discharge to my mattress?
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The process of charge buildup in the atmosphere can happen in a few different ways, but one common mechanism is through the movement of water droplets and ice crystals in the clouds. These particles can become charged as they rub against each other or against other objects in the cloud, creating an imbalance of electrical charge. This charge separation can create areas of positive and negative charge within the cloud, or between the cloud and the ground. When the electrical potential between these different charged areas becomes high enough, the electrical current will discharge, creating the flash of lightning.
The air under your blankets is not able to conduct electricity in the same way that the air in the atmosphere can because the conditions in the two environments are very different.
In the atmosphere, the air is much less dense and contains a mix of charged particles as well as other gases and moisture. These conditions are conducive to the kind of electrical charge separation and buildup that is necessary for lightning to occur. The air under your blankets is not exposed to the same kind of temperature and moisture conditions as the air in the atmosphere, which further reduces its ability to conduct electricity.
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